Spring Return Cylinders
Single-acting hydraulic cylinders with automatic spring-powered return—guaranteed power-free retraction regardless of orientation.
Automatic Return Stroke
Spring return cylinders produce power in one direction with hydraulic pressure and automatically return using an internal mechanical spring. They're ideal when you need a guaranteed, power-free return stroke—regardless of orientation—while keeping circuits simple and cost-effective.
How They Work
Pressure Stroke
Hydraulic pressure drives the piston in the working direction.
Return Stroke
Preloaded internal spring forces the piston to its home position.
Breathing
Non-pressurized side vented via breather to eliminate pressure build-up.
Custom Engineering
We design and manufacture spring return cylinders tailored to your specific requirements and applications.
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Heavy-Duty Spring Packs Higher return force for demanding applications
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Low-Friction Seal Stacks Ultra-light returns for sensitive operations
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Stainless & Washdown Builds Food & beverage and hygienic applications
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Integrated Sensing Custom end-caps for tight envelopes
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Special Mounts Guided bearings for side-load tolerance
Key Benefits
- Orientation-independent: Works vertically, horizontally, or upside down
- Fail-safe home position: Spring drives to a known state on pressure loss
- Simple circuits: Fewer valves and lines than double-acting designs
- Fast setup: Drop-in actuation for tooling and automation
Note: Output force on the powered stroke is reduced by opposing spring force—account for this in sizing.
Operating Envelope
- Pressure: Up to 210 bar (3,000 psi)
- Speed: Up to 0.5 m/s (meter-out recommended)
- Temperature: −20°C to +80°C with standard seals
- Media: Mineral oil (HLP); water-glycol on request
- Duty limits: Spring travel and stress define practical stroke
Industry Applications
Spring return cylinders deliver reliable automatic retraction across diverse industries
Workholding Clamps
Clamps and presses with automatic release
Dam Gate Valves
Dam gate valve applications
Pick & Place Tooling
Ejectors, part kickers, and automated handling
Packaging & Forming
Forming and cutting fixtures
Door/Gate Latches
Indexers and stoppers
Agricultural & Mobile
Attachments requiring auto-return
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
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